June 15, 2010

Vancouver, B.C. – The BC Marine Trades Association (BCMTA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Canadian Boat Shows Inc. (CBSI) as the new show management for the Vancouver International Boat Show (VIBS) effective for the 2011 show – February 9 to 13, 2011 at the Vancouver Convention Centre. “This is very good news for the industry,” said Alan Stovell, President of BCMTA. “CBSI is an industry-owned consortium, led by Linda Waddell and key staff who have organized the Vancouver show for the past seven years. The expertise and professionalism that guided the organization of VIBS in the past will continue without interruption.”           

Stovell explained that the change in management company was triggered by the cancellation of the contract with the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA). “When NMMA sold the Toronto International Boat Show earlier this year to Canadian Boat Shows Inc., they re-evaluated their ability to effectively manage VIBS.  We have very much appreciated the efforts of NMMA and the close relationship that has developed over the past seven years. As the leading North American trade association representing marine manufacturers, we expect to continue working with their Canada division on issues that affect the industry at provincial, national and international levels.”

Stovell adds that BCMTA is confident CBSI will continue to provide the same high level of service that was evident under NMMA. Speaking on behalf of CBSI, President Linda Waddell echoed that comment. “The past seven years of working together with BCMTA have built the foundation for a strong partnership,” said Waddell. “We share a common vision and commitment for the value the Vancouver Show brings to the industry and exhibitors.  We’re pleased to have the opportunity to continue managing the show under a new structure.  CBSI will have a new office address in Vancouver and some staff re-organization, which we’ll be working with BCMTA to establish shortly.    

The 49^th Vancouver International Boat Show will take place from February 9 to 13, 2011 at the Vancouver Convention Centre. Exhibitor applications will be sent out in August by email.  Exhibitors are encouraged to sign up early to take advantage of promotional opportunities.

For background on:

Vancouver International Boat Show/Canadian Boat Shows Inc: www.vancouverboatshow.ca

BC Marine Trades Association: www.bcmta.com

For more information, please contact:

Linda Waddell
Canadian Boat Shows Inc.
905-951-4051 / lwaddell@canadianboatshows.com

or

Jane McIvor 
BC Marine Trades Association
604-683-5191 / jane@bcmta.com

Abreast In A Boat
Abreast in A Boat is the world's first breast cancer dragonboat team. Following a lengthy test by renowned Dr. Don MacKenzie to prove that rigorous upper body exercise was a good thing for post breast cancer patients, the paddlers involved enjoyed the experience so much that they formed the Abreast In A Boat Society. Thirteen years later, AIAB is proud to be the model on which over 150 other world teams have been formed. BC Marine Trades Association recently provided a grant to assist the AIAB in the purchase of new lifejackets. In addition to recognizing the benefits of upper body exercise, AIAB also proves demonstrates the many benefits of an active life, team spirit and, of course, being out on the water -- a proven stimulus to happiness and good health. We encourage you to find out more about this very worthwhile cause. Please visit: www.abreastinaboat.com for more information.

Georgia Strait Alliance Clean Marine Program
BCMTA demonstrated their support for the environment by providing a grant to the Georgia Strait Alliance (GSA) Clean Marine Program. GSA developed a voluntary environmental recognition program for marinas, harbour authorities, yacht clubs and boatyards in BC. “Clean Marine BC” is modelled on the highly successful “Clean Marine” program run by the Ontario Marine Operators Association (OMOA). GSA has adapted the OMOA’s materials for use in BC, including an excellent reference handbook that enables marina and boatyard operators to identify improvements standards that will provide the best practices for ensuring a clean operation. For more information about Georgia Strait Alliance, the Clean Marine Program and the many initiatives that help promote green boating practices, please visit: www.georgiastrait.org.

Canadian Safe Boating Council
BCMTA is pleased to assist the CSBC in their efforts to promote boating safety. Funding from BCMTA was used to bring the Ready, Set, Inflate! event to Vancouver. The event, held in locations throughout the world, served as a launch for North American Safe Boating Week (May 22 to 28, 2010).

The Canadian Safe Boating Council is in the business of promoting safe and responsible boating throughout Canada. As an alliance of members committed to preventing boating injuries and drownings, the Canadian Safe Boating Council works to achieve its mission by:
1) Defining key boating safety problems and issues that need to be addressed in Canada.
2) Providing professional development for members and other partner organizations that helps raise their awareness, understanding and commitment to boating safety problems and solutions.
3) Providing common core education messages and resource materials that members can use in their education efforts with boaters.
4) Acting as a clearinghouse for sharing safe boating ideas and information, and as a forum for aligning and encouraging synergy among member efforts.
5) Being a collective voice consulting with government and other boating stakeholders to advocate for changes that will enhance boating safety, including standards, regulations, legislation and enforcement.
6) Linking with international boating safety organizations to exchange information and resources.


Disabled Sailing Association / Mobility Cup
As a long-time supporter of the Disabled Sailing Association, the request for support of the Mobitlity Cup 2010 was an easy one for the BCMTA to get behind. Disabled (or adaptive) sailing, promotes freedom and independence. Even people with no movement below the neck are able to sail by themselves, with the use of sip ‘n’ puff technology. Even people who are respirator-dependent are able to sail safely and independently. No other sport or recreational activity can match that level of independence.

Mobility Cup 2010 is open to anyone with a significant physical disability, with places available for novice and experienced racers. It will be held Sept. 13 - 17, in Vancouver, B.C.

Disabled Sailing Association of British Columbia and The Royal Vancouver Yacht Club will host five days of sailing on English Bay, using the adaptive Martin 16 sloop. Racing will be in two classes, divided according to sailing experience.

Sailing allows people with disabilities to enjoy complete independence and freedom, whether as a recreational activity or a competitive high performance endeavor, thanks to assistive technology. It is now one of the fastest-growing sports for people with disabilities.